Abinger Hammer is an attractive small village, stretched out along the A25 road, between Guildford and Dorking. Its most notable feature is the Abinger Hammer Clock, which overhangs the main road and makes it vulnerable to damage from high sided vehicles. The clock portrays the figure of “Jack the Blacksmith”, who strikes the hours on a bell with his hammer. The clock bears the inscription, “By me you know how fast to go”. It was erected in memory of Lord Farrer of Abinger Hall, who died in 1899.
The “Hammer”, in the name of the village, is a reminder of the iron industry, which was carried on in the Surrey-Sussex Weald. The River Tillingbourne, which now flows through the village green, was, in the 16th century, impounded into a hammer pond to provide power for Abinger Forge.
The village green is popular with visitors, many of whom bring a picnic to enjoy, whilst watching a game of cricket. The Tillingbourne is on the edge of the green and here children paddle and fish with nets, in the shallow water, hoping to catch a trout. Across the road are the combined post office, general store and tea rooms.
